MEMPHIS, Tennessee — It's Giving Tuesday, a nationwide effort to encourage people to be generous and in honor of the day, people can ensure that no child goes cold this winter.
Shelby County Schools will host its sixth annual Operation Warm Hearts Winter Clothing Drive to give to students in need.
This year's event will be a drive-thru for people to drop off donations.
SCS is collecting new winter coats, jackets, gloves, hats and scarves.
The thought of children being left out in the cold without a coat, motivated people like Stephanie Golden to wake up early and donate.
“I love giving. It makes me happy and sad," Golden said. "I know everybody’s not fortunate enough to have coats. I didn’t have one when I was little so you never forget where you come from.”
The district raised $20,000 worth of warm winter clothes through last year's event.
People that can't make it to the drive can donate money through CashApp to “$SupportSCS” for “Warm Hearts”.
“Operation Warm Hearts is one of our favorite giving traditions here at Shelby County Schools," Jerica Phillips, Shelby County Schools Chief of Communications, said.
The district has tentative plans to return to the classroom after winter break, meaning more students will again be walking to school.
“It could mean a student going to school or staying home, them having the necessary winter clothing," Phillips said.
Money is tight this time of year for struggling families. Now, due to the pandemic, the need is only greater.
"We just encourage anyone interested in supporting our students," Phillips said. "It is so important, now more than ever, to give and provide resources and supports to our families during this pandemic so we ask you to open your hearts and again spread joy."
The winter clothing drive runs until 6 p.m.
